Change Management : Some simple rules
1. Remember that your staff have been here before. There will be a long 'folk-memory', often highly cynical. You know how your memory of school holidays is all sunshine and ice cream? Their memories of change are all gloom.
2. Wii4 me?
What's In It for me? - anyone facing change at work will have to go home and explain what is going on, and of course that conversation will only discuss the potential impact on that person.
Inevitably that will add insecurity to the cynicism.
3. YOU must overcome Cynicism and Insecurity!
How? -
a) Be professional - use a strong Project Plan with defined milestones.
b) Be Open and Honest, but always focus on the big picture goal - that is why the change is essential.
c) Organise workstreams, with plenty of engagement - and with scope for these to have an impact - listen to the feedback and take it on board.
d) TRUMPET success - or better still, find champions amongst the staff and let them trumpet success - and keep driving toward the Goal.
e) Ensure that Top Management recognise what is going on and get them to come along to walk the course, to give appreciation of what is being achieved.
4. Make sure there is an End-Point
And celebrate when you reach it.
Change does happen!
But it requires Leadership - to set the right course, push things through, and be ready to deal with the unexpected consequences.